SOUTHEND United midfielder Oli Coker is still ‘buzzing’ after netting his first senior goal for the Shrimpers.
Coker bagged Blues’ second goal in Saturday’s 4-0 win against Oldham Athletic at Roots Hall.
And the 20-year-old was delighted to see the ball hit the back of the net.
“I was buzzing to be fair and it was a great feeling,” said Coker.
“It was quite a quick reaction to shoot but I knew I had a bit of time to get a shot away after my touch and luckily for me I hit it well and it went in.”
Coker’s goal was the first of a trio of late strikes for the Shrimpers during a memorable opening day victory for Kevin Maher’s side.
And Coker was thrilled to help Blues get off to such a good start.
“It was a great game to be involved in,” said Coker.
“No one really knew what to expect from us from the outside looking in but I thought we played very well throughout the whole game.
“We knew we were ready for whatever was thrown at us.
“We have a great group in the dressing room and we all want to win.
“We know what we are capable of and got the result we deserved in the end.”
However, the Shrimpers have already turned their attentions towards Saturday’s trip to Dagenham & Redbridge.
And Coker is keen to pick up more points.
“It’s another game of football that we want to win,” said Coker.
“They are a decent side so it will be a good game for both teams.
“But Saturday was a great starting point for us so hopefully we can build on it and grow in confidence now.
“I think we just have to keep our heads down, stick together and keep playing the way we know.
“Hopefully the results can follow if we do that.”
Coker will also be looking to play a key part and continue his progression with his hometown club.
The former Greensward Academy pupil joined Blues at the age of nine and credits coach Danny Heath as the biggest influence on his time at Roots Hall.
“Quite a few people have helped me but Danny Heath is definitely up there,” said Coker.
“I worked with him from the under nines to to the under 21s.
“He’s definitely helped me throughout the years at the club and always believed in me which was nice.”
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